2026 Promotion Party: Who’s Celebrating?

The football season is nearing an end – but for some teams, the celebrations have already begun!

CHAMPIONSHIP

Coventry City have by far been the leading team this past season – it’s no surprise to see them lifting the trophy this year, but behind them it was a closely fought battle for the second automatic promotion spot, with Ipswich Town securing a direct return to the Premier League on the final day, beating QPR.

LEAGUE ONE

A phenomenal season for Lincoln City saw them become champions of the third division with over 100 points (103, to be exact) – 12 clear of their nearest rivals Cardiff City, who themselves saw daylight from the playoff positions by finishing 14 points clear of 3rd place. This, despite losing their final game of the season!

LEAGUE TWO

It went right down to the wire on the final day of League Two. However, it was Bromley who would topple MK Dons right at the death to secure the title, just two years since reaching league football for the first time ever!

Joining them in the automatic promotion spots was Cambridge United, who secured their spot ahead of Salford City & Notts County. Interestingly enough, all three teams drew their final game, so had either of the other two won (albeit Notts County needing a massive goal difference swing in their advantage) it could’ve been them.

NATIONAL LEAGUE

Here’s where the real drama was. With only one automatic promotion spot, the final game would see York City take on Rochdale – both teams in the top 2 spots, with both being able to win it all.

With a 95th minute goal, Rochdale thought they’d sealed the deal – until York somehow equalised after 103 minutes, drawing the game 1-1. York City Champions on 108 points, Rochdale to try through the playoffs on 106.